Two notable veterans from the Washington Commanders celebrated birthdays over the weekend, drawing attention to their unique journeys in the NFL. Clelin Ferrell, the 28-year-old defensive end, marked his special day with a reflection on his roots as a lifelong fan of the franchise.

Originally from Richmond, Virginia, Ferrell's journey from local high school football to a standout career at Clemson University caught the eyes of NFL scouts, making him a consensus first-round draft pick in 2019. Having experienced the highs and lows of professional football, Ferrell's enthusiasm for the Commanders reflects the deep connection between athletes and their hometown teams.